Since its launch in 2005 the video sharing/social media site YouTube has become an indispensable advertising and marketing tool for businesses of all sizes and industries to market their products to prospects and customers.

Its reach is widespread and global as the statistics attest:

  • 1.3 billion people use YouTube.
  • 300 hours of video uploads per minute.
  • 5 billion videos are watched every day.
  • 80% of 18-49 year olds watch YouTube.

The Youtube video platform continues to host videos for more and more businesses but it’s not for everyone. Before you decide to incorporate Youtube into your company’s marketing strategy this year consider some pros and cons.

Pros Video Marketing works for almost any type of business YouTube is the second most popular online search engine Video is considered the most engaging form of content Lower cost of keywords to target customers compared to Google Search The types of ads you run with Limited customization and availability of content

Almost all types of businesses can benefit from this channel including online businesses small offline businesses and even freelancers and consultants offering services.

There is no fee to upload a Youtube video but in exchange you need to accept that your video will contain promotional content. This may include advertisements for competitors’ products as well as promotions for products that do not fit your marketing campaign at all such as advertisements PR service during the singing video.

Also if you want to customize your video and have a page that displays your company’s branding so that it works with your website you’re out of luck as Youtube offers very little in the way of customization.

Whatever the reason so many businesses use YouTube marketing is that it is so effective. Not only is it a way to reach a large audience but it is also one of the most cost-effective online marketing channels.

  • By its very nature videos engage potential customers and get them to pay attention to see what’s coming next and compel them to take action. In fact according to a study by SmallBizTrends 70% of marketers say video is the reason for most of their conversions.
  • In this crowded advertising market busy people – is everyone like this now? – Also appreciate being able to watch ads instead of reading them.
  • YouTube videos are easily searchable by keyword—either on YouTube itself or through its parent company Google. Every time someone watches a video related videos appear – which means you can easily reach your niche audience.

Take Michelle Phan who started uploading makeup tutorials in 2007 as a perfect example of making money through YouTube. Since then her various videos have garnered millions of views and 8 million subscribers. Her YouTube fame led her to start her own makeup line ($500 value) million) and create your own YouTube network.

As you can see if you don’t learn how to use YouTube marketing for your business you may be missing out.

Getting Started With Your YouTube Videos

Creating a video might sound daunting. However figuring out how to use YouTube to market your business is actually pretty easy if you follow some specific guidelines to ensure your videos are viewed and compel your viewers to take action.

1. Figure Out Your Format

There is no one right format for an effective marketing video. Certain styles are best for certain niches. Some resonate the most with your audience. Check out the list below and try to decide which is best for your business.

  • Talking head
  • Interview
  • Screen sharing (where you can film what you’re doing on your computer screen)
  • How-to or tutorial
  • Explainer
  • Vlog (video blog)
  • Product review

If you run a brick and mortar business you can even upload a TV commercial-style YouTube video.

2. Creating Videos

The great thing about YouTube marketing videos is that they don’t have to be expensive and “professional.” You can even shoot video with your smartphone.

But make sure you have good lighting so you can see everything on the screen clearly. Also make sure the sound is clear – that’s one reason you might want to buy a microphone at some point.

Consider using a tripod to keep the camera steady. You can then use some basic video editing software to add titles and edit errors or switch between shots.

Videos should be about 3 to 4 minutes long. Often shorter videos work best especially those intended to be shared on social media. See what length is right for your audience.

3. Keywords

Keywords are relevant to your video content. For example if you sell dog training videos online some keywords might be “dog training” or “obedience training.” You put these keywords in the description and tags in the video title.

Putting these keywords in place tells search engines what the video is about and when people search for videos like yours they’ll find them.

You can use Google’s Keyword Planner to find the “hot” keywords that are searched a lot in your niche. You can also look at your competitors’ videos and use the same keywords as them.

4. Include Effective Calls to Action

The whole point of your YouTube video is to engage your audience and then they will take some action that will bring them closer to becoming your customer. Usually you don’t sell stuff directly on YouTube. Instead you’re generating leads that you can consistently market to.

In your video description you should include a link to your website blog or landing page. You should also tell people the URL to visit at the end of the video. Wherever you send them make sure you have a way to get their contact information such as a URL.

Some other calls to action to include are asking them to rate your videos subscribe to your YouTube channel and follow you on Facebook Twitter and other social media.

You can also encourage people to post your videos on their social media or blogs…or even share them directly with friends.

5. Be Social

Remember YouTube is a social network. This means you should have an active presence. When someone comments on one of your videos join in and thank them too. If someone asks a question – answer it.

You should also comment on other people’s videos…you may find those viewers coming to check out your channel.

Another technique is to create video playlists of similar topics or themes. You can include your video as well as other people’s videos.

6. Promote Your Videos

You don’t want to wait for people to simply find your video on YouTube. Tell the world they are there.

Spread the word on your blog Post them on your website Post them to Facebook and LinkedIn Send links from Twitter Send emails to your list…

However you contact a potential client and the client tells them about your YouTube video.

Now You’re Ready

Start simple. It’s a learning process when you start using YouTube marketing for your business.

As you create more videos you’ll get better at shooting improving the styles and formats you use and improving your use of keywords. Don’t forget to get to know your videos through social media and other methods. And be consistent; upload new videos regularly.

Over time you’ll grow your audience and YouTube marketing will become an important advertising channel for your business.